In Memoriam: Brett Cooper V 18

Brett Matthew Cooper, V'18, passed away on September 13, 2017, taken too soon at the age of 30. He had an infectious smile, was quick to make friends, free with a laugh and an "I love you." His compassion knew no bounds and he had the biggest heart.

Brett brought warmth to every life he touched. As one friend said, he smiled with his whole face, hugged with his whole body and loved with his whole heart. The many tributes on his Facebook page from those who knew and loved him are a lasting reminder of his impact on people, regardless of how recently or for how much time Brett passed through their lives.

One stands out in particular:

"All of us should strive to love and treat people as unconditionally as he did." That was Brett. His legacy is the love he put out into the world."

The Brett Matthew Cooper Memorial Scholarship

Brett's lifelong dream was to become a veterinarian. Tragically he was not able to complete his goal, passing away just a few months short of his graduation from Penn Vet. But in his memory, we can help others finish what Brett started.

Brett's family is working to establish the Brett Matthew Cooper Memorial Scholarship at Penn Vet in his memory. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a student who is pursuing a career in the service of and care for animals, with special emphasis on those who can demonstrate that they have overcome adversity in the pursuit of their education.

Diagnosed with Tourette's Syndrome at a young age, Brett never allowed his disabilities to interfere with his dreams or to limit his perception of his own capabilities. His was a life defined by facing obstacles and overcoming them, by refusing to bow to a challenge no matter how long it took to achieve. He always had a smile on his face. Always. Even when the barriers ahead were daunting. That's his lesson to us now.

Making a Donation

Brett was always happy to see others succeed, never burdened by the weight of jealousy or vindictiveness. When something good happened for someone else, Brett's reaction, every time, was joy. Deeply and without reservation. So the Cooper Family understands that, even though it pains them that Brett will never achieve his dream, he would be honored to know that his legacy will help others to realize goals he left unfulfilled.

All donations are 100% tax deductible. The Cooper Family needs your support in order to ensure that Brett's memory lives on and that his impact on the lives of others persists.